When you’re in need of a meal that brings everyone to the table fast, Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce and Ground Beef is your go-to. It’s a weeknight-friendly dish that doesn’t sacrifice comfort or taste. Creamy cheese wraps around every twist of rotini pasta while rich garlic butter and savory ground beef make each bite irresistibly satisfying.

This pasta dish is hearty without being heavy, cheesy without being too rich, and the garlicky butter sauce ties it all together with warmth and depth. It’s the kind of dinner that feels cozy and indulgent yet only takes minimal effort and ingredients to make. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for something crave-worthy, this pasta never disappoints.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Rotini Pasta

This recipe is quick to make, family-friendly, and budget-conscious. The rotini pasta holds the cheesy garlic butter sauce perfectly, making every bite flavorful. It reheats well, making it ideal for leftovers or meal prep. And let’s not forget the star combo: tender ground beef simmered in buttery garlic is practically made for weeknight comfort.

The beauty of this dish is its flexibility. You can make it as indulgent or as light as you like by adjusting the type of cheese, using lean beef, or adding in vegetables like spinach or peas. It truly works for any kitchen and any night.

What Kind of Pasta Works Best for Garlic Butter Sauce?

Rotini is ideal because its spirals hold onto the sauce beautifully, allowing the cheese and garlic butter to cling to every curve. But if you don’t have rotini on hand, don’t worry. Penne, fusilli, or even bowties will also work well. Just avoid spaghetti or linguine, which don’t catch the creamy sauce as effectively. It’s all about texture here—you want those grooves to catch every drop of flavor.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce and Ground Beef

This dish uses everyday ingredients, but together they make magic. The key is the balance of flavors—savory ground beef, garlicky butter, and gooey cheese all playing off the texture of the pasta. Here’s what you need:

Rotini pasta
Ground beef
Garlic cloves
Butter
Shredded mozzarella cheese
Parmesan cheese
Salt
Black pepper
Paprika (optional)

Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce and Ground Beef 2

How To Make the Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce and Ground Beef

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika if using. Once cooked, drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid burning.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Return the cooked pasta to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce. Add the ground beef back in and mix well. Sprinkle in the shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Serve

Serve hot, optionally garnished with extra parmesan or chopped parsley for a pop of freshness.

How to Serve and Store Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce and Ground Beef

This dish is best served hot straight from the skillet, when the cheese is melty and the butter sauce is still glistening. It’s a no-fuss comfort meal that doesn’t need dressing up, though a sprinkle of fresh herbs or an extra handful of parmesan never hurts. This recipe makes about four generous servings, but it can easily be doubled for a crowd or halved for a cozy dinner for two.

To store leftovers, transfer the cooled pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or water before microwaving or warming on the stovetop to loosen up the sauce and restore its creamy texture.

What to Serve With Cheesy Rotini Pasta?

Garlic Bread

A classic partner to soak up that buttery sauce, garlic bread adds crunch and more garlic goodness.

Green Salad

Lighten things up with a crisp green salad tossed in a vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the pasta.

Roasted Vegetables

Try roasted broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers to add texture and balance to your plate.

Tomato Basil Soup

A warm bowl of tomato basil soup pairs beautifully with cheesy pasta and adds a cozy vibe.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts

Their tangy caramelization offers a nice contrast to the savory pasta.

Sauteed Spinach with Lemon

Quick and easy, it brings brightness and a pop of color to your meal.

Caprese Salad

Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil echo the flavors in the pasta while refreshing the palate.

Parmesan Zucchini Chips

Lightly baked or air-fried zucchini chips sprinkled with parmesan make a crunchy, cheesy side that doesn’t compete with the main dish.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce and Ground Beef hits the spot, you’ll love exploring more hearty pasta dishes on Janet Dishes:

Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta is a velvety, veggie-packed option that balances richness with fresh greens.
One-Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni gives you big flavor with minimal cleanup.
Tuscan Chicken Pasta brings a restaurant-style feel with sun-dried tomatoes and creamy sauce.
Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta adds a spicy twist for those who like a little heat.
Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta Sauce Recipe is a lightened-up version that still satisfies.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go extra cheesy? Add in mushrooms or spinach? Swap the beef for turkey?

I love hearing how you customize these recipes to make them your own. Feel free to ask questions too—let’s make weeknight cooking even easier.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

Conclusion

Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce and Ground Beef is the kind of meal that earns a regular spot in your dinner rotation. It’s fast, filling, and full of flavor without needing anything fancy. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish delivers comfort in every cheesy, garlicky bite.